SCOPE OF INSPECTION
GUIDELINES
As a Texas Real Estate Commission licensed "Professional" Home Inspector,
I am required to follow the inspection guidelines of the TREC Standards of Practice. The items noted below are the minimum Scope of Inspection outlined by these standards of practice. Please allow 2 to 4 hours on site for these systems, where accessible, to be inspected.
SCOPE
These standards of practice define the minimum levels of inspection required for substantially completed residential improvements to real property up to four dwelling units. A real estate inspection is a non-technically exhaustive, limited visual survey and basic performance evaluation of the systems and components of a building using normal controls and does not require the use of specialized equipment or procedures. The purpose of the inspection is to provide the client with information regarding the general condition of the residence at the time of inspection. The inspector may provide a higher level of inspection performance than required by these standards of practice and may inspect components and systems in addition to those described by the standards of practice.
1. STRUCTURAL SYSTEMS
Minimum Inspection requirements for Structural Systems.
A. Foundations - note the type and render a written opinion as to the performance of the foundation. Note components inside and outside the house affected by foundation movement and note deficient areas found on foundation.
B. Grating and Drainage - report deficiencies in grade level and slope away from foundations and deficiencies in gutters and downspouts.
C. Roof Covering Materials - Report type and, when possible, inspect from roof surface. Report deficiencies in all roofing components. Note evidence of prior repairs.
D. Roof Structure and Attics - Report deficiencies in roof decking, framing members, insulation, attic decking, ventilation, and access.
E. Interior walls, ceilings, floors, and doors - Report evidence of water penetration and damage to all components.
F. Exterior walls, doors and windows - Report evidence of water penetration and damage to all components.
G. Exterior and interior Glazing - Report deficiencies in any component of windows including missing safety glass in required locations.
H. Interior and exterior stairways - Report deficiencies in all components of starways.
I. Fireplaces and Chimneys - Report all deficiencies in the fireplace and chimney.
J. Porches, balconies, decks, and carports - Report deficiencies.
2. ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
a. SERVICE PANELS - report deficiencies in electrical components
b. BRANCH CIRCUITS, CONNECTED DEVICES, AND FIXTURES - report all deficiencies
3. HVAC SYSTEM
a. Heating Systems - Note energy source, age and deficiencies
b. Cooling Systems - Note age and deficiencies
c. Ducts - Report all defects
4. PLUMBING SYSTEM
.a. Plumbing systems - report location of water meter, homeowner's shut off valve location, and static water pressure. Report water leaks and deficiencies in components. Report issues with drain performance.
4a. WATER HEATERS
Water Heaters - Report energy source and capacity of unit along with deficiencies.
4b. HYDRO MASSAGE THERAPY EQUIPMENT
MASSAGE TUB - report water leaks, inoperable units, missing access panel, missing electrical GFCI safety, and deficiencies in components.
5. APPLIANCES
Dishwashers - Report deficiencies
Food waste disposers - Report deficiencies
Range hoods and exhaust systems - Report deficiencies
Electric or gas ranges, cooktops, and ovens - Report deficiencies
Microwave ovens - Report deficiencies
Mechanical exhaust systems and bathroom heaters - Report deficiencies
Garage door operators - Report deficiencies
Dryer exhaust systems - Report deficiencies
OPTIONAL SYSTEMS
Picture of clogged dryer vent on roof.
1. LANDSCAPE IRRIGATION
Landscape Irrigation or Sprinkler System Inspection - Home Inspector to report any adverse conditions found.
Items inspected include: controller, rain sensor, valves, water leaks, backflow prevention, shut off valves, spray heads.
2. SWIMMING POOLS, SPAS, HOT TUBS, AND EQUIPMENT
The home inspector is to inspect drains, pump motor, blower, other electrical equipment, safety barriers, piping, GFCIs, surfaces, tile, coping, decks, slides, steps, diving boards, handrails, skimmers, valves, filters, gauges, controls, sweeps, lighting fixtures, & pool heater.
3. OUTBUILDINGS
The home inspector is to inspect outbuildings including: GFCIs, structural, electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation, cooling,
4. PRIVATE WATER WELLS
Inspect for leaks, function, note system components, and advise buyer to have a coliform test performed.
5. PRIVATE SEWAGE DISPOSAL (SEPTIC) SYSTEMS.
The home inspector is to report: type of system, location of distribution field, surface olfactory of effluent seepage, inoperable aerators, and other deficiencies.